Portugal has broken its national record for the hottest May day as a heatwave sweeps across parts of Europe, with French students sitting exams in baking schools and red alerts issued in Italy.
The extreme weather has pushed temperatures to unprecedented levels for the time of year. According to reports, Portugal's new May temperature record was set amid a prolonged spell of hot, dry conditions. In Italy, authorities have issued red alerts—the highest level of heat warning—indicating a serious risk to health, particularly for the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions. Meanwhile, French students have been forced to take their exams in sweltering classrooms, raising concerns about the impact on concentration and wellbeing.
“Portugal breaks hottest May day record as a European heatwave raises concerns, with red alerts in Italy and French students in baking classrooms.”
The heatwave is currently centred on southern Europe, with no immediate effect on the UK. However, British holidaymakers in the affected regions should be aware of the red alerts in Italy and take appropriate precautions, such as staying hydrated and avoiding the sun during peak hours. Similar warnings apply in Portugal and France, where temperatures are also well above seasonal norms.
The Portuguese meteorological service confirmed the record-breaking temperature, though no specific figure was provided in the initial report. Italian authorities have activated their emergency heat protocols, which typically involve opening cooling centres and advising vulnerable people to stay indoors. The French education ministry has faced criticism for not cancelling exams during the extreme heat, according to the BBC.
The heatwave is expected to persist over the coming days, with forecasters monitoring whether it will intensify. European governments are likely to ramp up public health campaigns and consider emergency measures, such as school closures or adjusted working hours, if temperatures remain high.
What This Means For You
For UK travellers to Portugal, Italy, or France, heed local red alerts and take extra care in the heat, especially if you are elderly or have health conditions. Families with children should be aware that schools in France are remaining open despite the heat. The record temperatures in Portugal highlight the growing frequency of extreme weather events, which could affect travel plans later in the summer. While the UK is not currently affected, similar heatwaves in previous years have occasionally extended northwards.